Investigation of Bolt Group Configurations on Load Distribution and Joint Failure

Abstract

This article presents the results of an investigation into the failure of bolted joints in thin composite panels. The experimental investigations and comparisons of two different bolt group configurations (single row and staggered row) subjected to uniaxial loading are presented. Finite element analysis (FEA) is utilized to find the optimum bolt and edge distance arrangement. By understanding the link between modes of failure and bolt arrangement, failure modes can become part of the design specification or criteria. The article also gives some insight into load distribution and transfer between bolts and panels and their failure mechanism in composite panels.

Keywords:

• composite
• bolt group
• joints
• fasteners
• failure

Acknowledgment

The authors wish to thank Mr. Chris Lyons for all his hard work and contributions.